BOSTON (AP) — A state board has approved more than $20 million in state and local tax breaks for discount retailer TJX Cos.

The parent company of the T.J. Maxx and Marshalls chains has promised to use the tax breaks to create 300 new jobs and expand operations in its Framingham headquarters. TJX also plans to expand in Marlborough, where the firm has agreed to purchase buildings previously occupied by Fidelity Investments.

The Boston Globe reports (http://bo.st/KCapaY ) that the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council approved $3 million in state tax credits for TJX and also signed off on nearly $18 in local property tax breaks.

The council on Tuesday also approved tax credits for several other firms, including $3.3 million for General Dynamics, which is planning an $18 million upgrade of its Pittsfield plant.